Contoured double pass roller path for a track chain

ABSTRACT

A track chain member comprises a shoe member, and a first rail member extending from the shoe member, wherein the first rail member defines a track chain traveling direction and a lateral direction generally perpendicular to track chain traveling direction, a first support surface extending generally in both the track chain traveling direction and the lateral direction defining an outer lateral extremity, and a first crest shaped member disposed laterally adjacent the outer lateral extremity of the first support surface.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to track chains that use pins to hold thechain together. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to a pinretention design used to hold track chain members such as track shoes ortrack links together, helping to prevent the pin from falling out of thetrack chain members.

BACKGROUND

In many current applications, track chain members such as track links ortrack shoes are attached to each other using a pin that allows the trackchain members to rotate relative to each other while still allowing thechain to remain in tension when installed on the undercarriage of atrack type vehicle. If the pin becomes loose or otherwise falls out ofthe bores of the track chain members, the track chain will fall off theundercarriage of the track type vehicle, requiring maintenance in thefield that may be difficult and costly. To help prevent this fromhappening, different devices have been employed to retain the pin in thebores of the track chain members.

One such device that has been used is a snap ring with a welded plate ona floating plate that blocks the egress of the pin from the bore of thetrack chain member. This device has had problems. For example, it isdifficult to service the pin when needed due to the presence of thewelded plate. If the welded plate is not provided, the likelihood of thesnap ring twisting out of its retention groove adjacent the pinretaining bore is increased. Therefore, this solution has proven to beunsatisfactory in some applications.

Similarly, another solution has been to use a bolt and nut combinationto hold the pin in place. However, it is often necessary to weld the nutto the bolt making servicing the pin difficult. Also, the nut and boltare often exposed on the side of the track chain member, allowing themto become damaged. This may make disassembly difficult.

In other applications, under uneven mine floor conditions, the track pador other portion of the track chain member undulates causing high stresson the outer roller path as the surface of a track roller or idler wheelis no longer pressing flat or in a parallel manner onto the pad. Thehigh stresses may cause fracturing or spalling of the track chainmember, necessitating unwanted maintenance. Even on flat surfaces orterrain, the high loads encountered by the track chain member created bythe weight of the machine may also cause fracturing or spalling overtime. This too may lead to maintenance sooner than desired.

Similarly, the shoe member may bend relative to the track pad of thetrack chain member when subjected to high stress created by the weightand/or payload of the machine as well as movement of the track as itencounters obstacles, etc.

Various previous attempted solutions to withstand the stressconcentrations in the track chain member have been to harden the trackchain member. However, it has proven difficult to achieve the desiredhardening depth of previous track chain members.

SUMMARY

A track chain member according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure comprises a shoe member, and a first rail member extendingfrom the shoe member, wherein the first rail member defines a trackchain traveling direction and a lateral direction generallyperpendicular to track chain traveling direction, a first supportsurface extending generally in both the track chain traveling directionand the lateral direction defining an outer lateral extremity, and afirst crest shaped member disposed laterally adjacent the outer lateralextremity of the first support surface.

A track chain assembly according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure comprises a plurality of track chain segments, a plurality oftrack chain segments and at least one track chain segment includes twotrack chain members and at least one track chain member includes a shoemember, a first rail member extending from the shoe member, wherein thefirst rail member defines a track chain traveling direction and alateral direction generally perpendicular to track chain travelingdirection. The first rail member includes a first support surfaceextending generally in both the track chain traveling direction and thelateral direction defining an outer lateral extremity, and a first crestshaped member disposed laterally adjacent the outer lateral extremity ofthe first support surface, and a second rail member extending from theshoe member, wherein the first rail member defines the same track chaintraveling direction as the first rail member and the same lateraldirection as the first rail member, and a second support surfaceextending generally in both the track chain traveling direction and thelateral direction defining an inner lateral extremity, and a secondcrest shaped member disposed laterally adjacent the inner lateralextremity of the second support surface, wherein the first rail memberis spaced away from the second rail member, defining a groovetherebetween.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate several embodiments of thedisclosure and together with the description, serve to explain theprinciples of the disclosure. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a machine such as an excavator that hastrack chains that use an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a partially disassembled machineundercarriage for the machine of FIG. 1 revealing more clearly the trackchain of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a track segment of the track chain ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the pressing of a track pinbushing into the bores of the track chain members of a track segmentusing a hydraulic pressing device according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded assembly view of a pin retention deviceaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure positioned relativeto a track segment.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are alternate sectional views showing the pin retentiondevice of FIG. 5 in a configuration where the device is nearly fullyinstalled.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged side view of a track segment of a track chainshowing the pin retention device of FIGS. 6 and 7 installed.

FIG. 9 is a front view of an idler wheel or a track roller riding on acontoured double pass roller path of a track chain member according toan embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 contains a FEA stress plot showing the reduction of stress usinga contoured roller path according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure as compared to a conventional design.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a track roller riding on several trackchain members with track pads according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure with increased contact surface area as compared to previousdesigns.

FIG. 12 contains a FEA stress plot showing the reduction of stress nearthe track pin bore by increased the width of the track lug-strap of thetrack chain member of FIG. 11 compared to a previous design.

FIG. 13 is a top view of the track pad of track chain member accordingto the embodiment of FIG. 11, depicting the stress on the supportsurface of the track pad using a FEA plot.

FIG. 14 contains FEA stress plots of a baseline design, an intermediatedesign and another design according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure, showing how the track chain member has reduced stress.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a track chain member including curvedribs according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a FEA stress plot of the track chain member of FIG. 15 shownin an alternate perspective view while loaded, indicating a reduction instress as compared to previous track chain member designs.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of the FEA stress plot of FIG. 16, showingthe highest stress present on the front rib of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a FEA stress plot of the back rib of FIG. 16 shown from arear perspective, indicating that the back rib experiences less stressthan the front rib.

FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the track chain member of FIG. 15, showingvoids providing in the bottom of the shoe member.

FIG. 20 is an enlarged FEA stress plot of the central void of the shoemember of FIG. 15, illustrating the maximum stress in this area of theshoe member.

FIG. 21 is an enlarged FEA stress plot of the central side void of theshoe member of FIG. 15, illustrating the maximum stress in this area ofthe shoe member.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the track chain member of FIG. 15taken along lines 15-15 thereof, depicting the shape of the side andcentral voids of the shoe member.

FIG. 23 illustrates another machine in the form of a hydraulic miningshovel that my use various track chain members, pin retention devices,and/or track chains according to the embodiments disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the disclosure,examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whereverpossible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout thedrawings to refer to the same or like parts. In some cases, a referencenumber will be indicated in this specification and the drawings willshow the reference number followed by a letter for example, 100 a, 100 betc. It is to be understood that the use of letters immediately after areference number indicates that these features are similarly shaped andhave similar function as is often the case when geometry is mirroredabout a plane of symmetry. For ease of explanation in thisspecification, letters will often not be included herein but may beshown in the drawings to indicate duplications of features discussedwithin this written specification.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure include a pin retentiondesign that includes a bolt, washer, nut and spacer that are positionednear the longitudinal end of a track pin. This may prevent the track pinfrom egressing out of a track pin bore found in a track chain memberwhile the track chain is in used on a machine.

FIGS. 1 thru 3 illustrate an application of various embodiments of thepin retention device of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a machine 10 having a frame 12 witha track system 14, including a first track 14 a and a second track 14 bpositioned at opposite sides of frame 12. Machine 10 is shown in thecontext of an excavator having an operator cab 16, a linkage 18 and animplement 20 coupled with linkage 18. Tracks 14 a and 14 b are part of amachine undercarriage 11 coupled with frame 12 in a conventional manner.Each of tracks 14 a and 14 b include a plurality of coupled togethertrack shoes 60 forming endless loops extending about a plurality ofrotatable elements. In a typical design, an idler 30 and a drivesprocket 40 will be associated with each of tracks 14 a and 14 b andmounted to a track roller frame 22. A plurality of track rollers 80 mayalso be mounted to roller frame 22, and are associated with each oftracks 14 a and 14 b to support machine 10 and guide tracks 14 a and 14b in desired paths, as further described herein. One or more carrierrollers 50 may also be associated with each of tracks 14 a and 14 b tosupport and guide the tracks opposite rollers 80 during operation. Theunique design of tracks 14 a and 14 b and the overall track andundercarriage system of which they are a part are contemplated to enablemachine 10 to operate in certain environments such as soft underfootconditions without the shortcomings associated with many earlierdesigns. While use in the machine environment of an excavator isemphasized herein, it should be understood that machine 10 mightcomprise a different type of machine. For instance, track-type tractorsor even half-track machines are contemplated herein. Further still,machine 10 might consist of a conveyor or other type of machine whereintracks are used for purposes other than as ground engaging elements.Also, the machine might be some type of hydraulic shovel or rope shovel.

Referring now also to FIG. 2, there is shown machine undercarriage 11partially disassembled, showing portions of track roller frame 22 and acarbody 23. Each of tracks 14 a and 14 b may include a first track chain90 a and a second track chain 90 b. In one embodiment, each track chain90 a and 90 b may be positioned at or close to opposite edges of eachtrack shoe 60 making up the respective track. Each of track chains 90 aand 90 b may consist of alternating inboard links 94 and outboard links92. Referring also to FIG. 3, there is shown a segment of track 14 a,representative of any portion thereof, and substantially identical toany segment of track 14 b. The segment of track 14 a shown in FIG. 3includes three coupled together track shoes 60, each having one tracklink of first track chain 90 a and one track link of second track chain90 b coupled therewith. Each of the respective track links may be boltedto the corresponding track shoe with bolts 97. In other embodiments,described herein, integral track links and track shoes may be used.

It will further be noted from the FIG. 3 illustration that each tracklink may include opposite ends positioned adjacent ends of successivetrack links in the corresponding track chain. In particular, eachoutboard track link 92 may include a first end 93 a and a second end 93b opposite first end 93 a. Each inboard link 94 may also include a firstend 95 a and a second end 95 b. The respective track links may bepositioned such that their ends are located adjacent ends of adjacenttrack links in a side-by-side arrangement. Links having their endsarranged in a side-by-side manner could be either straight or S-shapedlinks, for example. Track pins 96 may extend through adjacent track linkends to couple the track links, and in turn adjacent track shoes,together, regardless if the track links and shoes are integral with eachother or separate members. Each of inboard links 94 may include bores 91in each of ends 95 a and 95 b wherein a track pin 96 is press fitted.Each outboard link 92 may include another bore 99 in each of its ends 93a and 93 b wherein a track pin 96 is loose-fitted. Snap-rings, keepersor some other pin retention mechanism according to an embodiment thatwill be described herein may be used to inhibit pins 96 from slippingout of bores 99, etc. End caps 98 may be used to seal bores 99 to retainlubricating fluid therein and enable access for service, etc. In oneembodiment, links 92 and 94 may be formed with a single forging die, andtheir respective bores, etc., formed via machining to obtain differentsizes for press-fits versus loose fits.

Among other things, the present disclosure provides a track system, oneembodiment of which is shown in FIG. 3, which differs from known trackdesigns in that the respective track chains 90 a and 90 b serve only tocouple together the sets of track shoes 60. Also in contrast to earlierdesigns, the track chains do not include rails upon which track rollersride. Instead, track rollers 80 ride directly on portions of track shoes60. This strategy allows track chains 90 a and 90 b to be relativelysimpler and lighter than conventional track chain designs. Track chains90 a and 90 b may also be positioned adjacent a first outboard edge 61 aand a second outboard edge 61 b of each of track shoes 60. Positioningtrack chains 90 a and 90 b close to the respective outboard edges 61 aand 61 b will enable track chains 90 a and 90 b to inhibit flexing andseparating of track shoes 60 during certain operating conditions such asduring high vertical loading and in response to certain mechanicalstresses. In particular, where one of track shoes 60 is positioned upona relatively hard supporting object such as a stump or stone, chains 90a and 90 b can inhibit separating or creation of gaps between trackshoes 60 due to stresses placed thereon, as described above in relationto earlier track designs.

As mentioned above, track rollers 80 ride directly on track shoes 60.Each track shoe 60 may include an upper side 63 having a pad 67positioned thereon. Pad 67 may include a first rail 65 a and a secondrail 65 b, configured to support a track roller during operation. Aguide block 62 may also be adjoined by each pad 67 and may comprise anintegral part of, or be positioned upon, each pad 67. Each guide block62 can provide guiding for track rollers as well as drive surfaces forthe corresponding track, as further described herein. Each pad 67 mayextend approximately from a front edge 64 a of each track shoe 60 to aback edge 64 b of the corresponding track shoe. In one embodiment, a pad67 may be formed integrally with each track shoe 60, such as by casting,forging, etc. Each guide block 62 may also be formed integrally with apad 67. Integral pad and block elements could be keyed to and bolted ontrack shoes 60 in certain embodiments. In most versions, each pad 67will provide a thickened region of wear material for wearing againsttrack rollers. In other embodiments, however, pads 67 need not include athickened wear region at all. Although pads 67 will typically berectangular, in other embodiments they might have alternative shapes.Pads 67 will typically have a width defined by outboard edges of rails65 a and 65 b which is less than one third a width D of thecorresponding track shoe. The term pad should thus be understood torefer generally to a region of each track shoe, or a part or region of apart coupled therewith, which provides rails 65 a and 65 b for trackrollers, without limitation as to shape or construction.

It will be further noted that rails 65 a and 65 b are positionedoutboard of each guide block 62 and positioned inboard of each trackchain 90 a and 90 b. In one embodiment, each of rails 65 a and 65 b mayhave a width, shown via arrows R in FIG. 3, which is less than adistance by which the closest outboard track chain 90 a, 90 b is spacedtherefrom. In other words, each of track chains 90 a and 90 b may bespaced an average distance from rails 65 a and 65 b, respectively, whichis greater than the width R of the corresponding rail. In certainembodiments, track chains 90 a and 90 b may be spaced an averagedistance, respectively, from rails 65 a and 65 b which is more thantwice a width of the corresponding rail. The distance whereby trackchains 90 a and 90 b are spaced from rails 65 a and 65 b is shown inFIG. 3 via arrows A. Also apparent from the FIG. 3 illustration arecertain of the relative dimensional characteristics of each track shoe60. It will be noted that each track shoe 60 has a length, shown viaarrow L, which is less than one half its width, shown via arrow D inFIG. 3.

As alluded to above, tracks 14 a and 14 b are considered to be wellsuited for work in soft underfoot conditions. To this end, tracks 14 aand 14 b may be “low ground pressure” tracks, each having track shoes 60with a relatively large ground contact area for distributing pressurefrom the weight of machine 10 across a relatively large surface area.Each of track shoes 60 has a footprint defined in part by front and backedges 64 a and 64 b, and also defined in part by outboard edges 61 a and61 b. Each of track shoes 60 may further include a ground contact areathat is equal to its footprint, or less than its footprint only to anextent that adjacent track shoes overlap one another. Grousers 69 areassociated with each of track shoes 60 and may extend downwardly from alower side thereof, which is positioned opposite upper side 63.

Though not clearly shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a pin retention device 300according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be located at afront 93 a or back portion 93 b of the rail portion of the track chainmember such as the track shoe 60 of FIG. 3.

FIGS. 4-8 illustrate another configuration of a track chain member 200in the form of a track shoe 104 with integral link members 106 that usea pin retention device according 300 to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. The track chain member 200 may be differently configured andwork with a differently configured drive sprocket or idler than what isshown in FIGS. 1-3. In other embodiments, the track chain member may bea track shoe or track link member that are separate from each other suchas when the track shoe is attached to the track link member viafastening, etc.

As best seen in FIG. 5-7, a track chain assembly 100 may comprise aplurality of track chain segments 102. A track chain segment 102typically comprises two track chain members 200 such as shoes and/orlinks. The track chain members 200 are typically attached to each othervia a track pin 108, allowing the track chain members 200 to rotaterelative to each other, imparting the track chain assembly 100 withenough flexibility so that the chain may alter its shape from flat, suchas when the segment 102 is contacting flat ground, to curved such aswhen the segment 102 is contacting uneven ground or is winding around adrive sprocket or idler wheel, etc.

Such a track chain assembly 100 often includes a plurality of trackchain segments 102 and at least one track chain segment includes twotrack chain members 200 and a track pin 108. The track pin 108 may becylindrical defining a longitudinal axis L108, a first end 110 and asecond end 112 along the axis L108. The pin 108 may connect the trackchain members 200 together by being inserted into track pin bores 202 ofthe track chain members 200, allowing the track chain members 200 torotate relative to each other.

As mentioned previously, a pin retention device 300 including a member302 proximate the first end 110 of the track pin 108 may be provided.The pin retention device 300 may define a longitudinal axis L300 that isnon-parallel to the longitudinal axis L108 of the track pin 108.

As best seen in FIGS. 6 and 7, at least one track chain member 200 maydefine a track pin bore 202 with a shoulder 204 disposed proximate thesecond end 112 of the track pin 108. In such an embodiment, the at leastone track chain member 200 may define an aperture 206 that is at leastpartially defined by the shoulder 204, and wherein the aperture 206 isin communication with the track pin bore 202.

As best seen in FIG. 6, the longitudinal axis L300 of the pin retentiondevice 300 may make an orthogonal angle α with the longitudinal axisL108 of the track pin 108.

Similarly, as best seen in FIG. 8, the track chain member defines adirection of travel 114 and the longitudinal axis L300 of the pinretention device 300 forms an oblique angle β to the direction of travel114. In such an embodiment, the oblique angle may range from 20 to 50degrees, and in some cases, may be approximately 35 degrees. This anglemay be varied as need or desired.

Referring back to FIG. 6, the pin retention device 300 includes a spacer304 and the spacer defines a length L304 and at least one track chainmember 200 defines a pin retention device bore 208 that defines athru-depth D208, and the length L304 of the spacer 304 exceeds thethru-depth D208 by a predetermined amount 210. This allows the pinretention device to float within the pin retention device bore along theL300 axis. A washer 306 may also be disposed between the track chainmember 200 and the spacer 304, helping to prevent deformation of thetrack chain member 200 that could lead to a loss of torque on thefastener 308, leading to a loosening and eventual loss of the pinretention device 300. It is contemplated that a washer may be omitted insome circumstances, such as when the washer is incorporated or integralwith the head of the fastener or when the head of the fastener isoversized compared to the spacer. That is to say, for example, thediameter of the head is greater than the diameter of the spacer, etc.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, after the track chain segment 102 has beenfully assembled, when the track pin 108 is disposed in the track pinbore 202, and the pin retention device 300 is inserted into the pinretention device bore 208, the pin retention device 300 is spaced awayfrom the track pin 108 a predetermined distance 212 when the track pin108 is fully inserted into the bore 202 such that the pin 108 contactsthe shoulder 204 at the opposite end of the bore 202. Thus, the pin maymove along the L108 axis before contacting the nut 302 or other memberof the pin retention device 300.

Looking at FIGS. 6-8 together, bushings 116 may be provided to providelubricity or other ways of reducing friction so that the joint formedbetween the track chain members 200 and the pin 108 may rotate morefreely. As shown in FIGS. 6-8, separate bushing members 116, 116′, 116″may be disposed in each of the track pin bores 202, 202′, 202″ or asingle bushing member that extends through all the track pin bores maybe provided. In yet other embodiments, the bushings may be omitted. Forexample, a self-lubricating pin may be provided that eliminates the needfor bushings in some embodiments, etc.

Referring now to FIGS. 4-8, a track chain member 200 according to anembodiment of the present disclosure may comprise a shoe member 104 anda first rail member 214 extending from the shoe member 104, wherein therail member 214 defines a dimension D214 of greatest extent and a trackchain traveling direction 114 generally parallel to the dimension D214of greatest extent. The track chain member 200 may further define atrack pin bore 202 defining a longitudinal axis L202 that isperpendicular to the track chain traveling direction 114 when the axisL202 and the direction 114 are projected onto the same plane (best seenin FIG. 5), and a pin retention device bore 208 that defines alongitudinal axis L208, wherein the longitudinal axis L208 of the pinretention device bore 208 and the longitudinal axis L202 of the trackpin bore 202 are non-parallel (best seen in FIG. 8). As shown in FIGS.4-8, the shoe member and the rail member may be integral with eachother. This may not be true for other embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

As alluded to earlier with reference to FIG. 6, the longitudinal axisL208 of the pin retention device bore 208 and the longitudinal axis L202of the track pin bore 202 form a perpendicular angle α with each other.As alluded to earlier with reference to FIG. 8, the longitudinal axisL208 of the pin retention device bore 208 and the track chain travelingdirection 114 form an oblique angle β with each other.

Focusing now on FIGS. 4 and 5, the track chain member 200 may furthercomprise a second rail member 216 extending from the shoe 104 in thesame direction as the first rail member 214, defining a pocket 218between the first and second rail members 214, 216. Also, the trackchain member 200 may comprise a third rail member 220 extending in adirection that is opposite the direction the first and second railmembers extend 214, 216, the third rail member 220 being aligned withthe pocket 218 along the longitudinal axis L202 of the track pin bore202. In the embodiment shown, the first, second and third rail members214, 216, 220 form a Y-shaped configuration. Other configurations arepossible for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5-8 disclose an embodiment of a pin retention device 300. Thedevice comprises a fastener 308 defining a longitudinal axis L308, afirst end 310 and a second end 312 along the longitudinal axis L308, ahead 314 at the first end 310 and a threaded portion 316 at the secondend 312, a tubular spacer 304 defining a thru-hole 318 configured toreceive the fastener 308, and a nut 302 defining a threaded hole 320configured to mate with the threaded portion 316 of the fastener 308.For reasons set forth above, the device 300 may further comprise awasher 306 that defines a central aperture 322 that is configured toreceive the fastener 308.

Looking at the fastener 308 more closely as best seen in FIGS. 5 and 6,the fastener 308 includes a shank portion 324 disposed between the head314 and the threaded portion 316 and the washer 306 is disposed betweenthe head 314 and the tubular spacer 304 once the device has been fullyinstalled. The nut 302 includes a rectangular configuration that allowsthe surface area of its flat sides 326 to be maximized so that itprovides enough bearing surface area should the pin 108 contact the flatside 326 if the pin become loose. Also, the fastener 308 takes the formof a bolt 328 that includes a hexagonally shaped head 314. A socket 330may be provided to mate with the head 314 while a wrench may be used tohold the nut 302 still as the bolt 328 is tightened. This continuesuntil the washer 306 is sandwiched between the head 314 of the fastener308 and the spacer 304. The pin retention device 300 is free to float inthe pin retention device bore 208 since the spacer 304 is longer thanthe depth of the bore 208 as previously explained.

As depicted by FIG. 4, the pin bushings 116 may be pressed into thetrack pin bores 202 of a track chain member 200 using a hydraulicpressing device 118. A brace 120 may be span between two rail members214′, 216 to provide support so that the rail members do not bend duringthe pressing operation. Then, the track pins may be inserted into thebores using a similar hydraulic device.

Other embodiments of the present disclosure may provide structure tohelp reduce the spalling or fracturing of track chain members. Referringnow to FIGS. 9 and 10, a track chain member 400 may comprise a shoemember 402, and a first rail member 404 extending from the shoe member402, wherein the first rail member 404 defines a track chain travelingdirection 114 (this direction is perpendicular to FIGS. 9 and 10 and isbest seen in FIGS. 1-3 and 8) and a lateral direction L generallyperpendicular to track chain traveling direction 114. The first railmember 404 may also include a first support surface 406 extendinggenerally in both the track chain traveling direction 114 and thelateral direction L defining an outer lateral extremity 408, and a firstcrest shaped member 410 disposed laterally adjacent the outer lateralextremity 408 of the first support surface 406. The “outer lateralextremity” is so called as it is closest the outside portion of thetrack chain member, toward the outside of the machine, once the trackchain assembly is mounted on the undercarriage of the machine. The shoemember and any rail member may or may not be integral with each other.

In some embodiments such as the one shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the shoemember 402 and the first rail member 404 define metallic outer surfaces.Often, the shoe member and the first rail member consist essentially ofmetallic material such as cast iron, steel, etc.

Focusing now on FIG. 9, the first crest shaped member 410 defines awidth W410 along the lateral direction L, a vertical direction V that isperpendicular to the lateral direction L and the track chain travelingdirection 114, and a height H410 in the vertical direction V, whereinthe width W410 exceeds the height H410. The track chain member 400 mayfurther comprise a second rail member 412 extending from the shoe member402, wherein the second rail member 412 defines a track chain travelingdirection 114 and a lateral direction L generally perpendicular to trackchain traveling direction 114. The track chain member 400 may furtherdefine a second support surface 414 extending generally in both thetrack chain traveling direction 114 and the lateral direction L definingan inner lateral extremity 416 and a second crest shaped member 418disposed laterally adjacent the inner lateral extremity 416 of thesecond support surface 414. The “inner lateral extremity” is so calledas it is closest the inside portion of the track chain member, towardthe inside of the machine, once the track chain assembly is mounted onthe undercarriage of the machine.

The second crest shaped member 418 may define a width W418 along thelateral direction L, a vertical direction V that is perpendicular to thelateral direction L and the track chain traveling direction 114, and aheight H418 in the vertical direction V, wherein the width W418 exceedsthe height H418.

Width W410 and W418 may range from 40 to 200 mm. Likewise, height H410and H418 may range from 40 to 200 mm. Also, the second support surface414 defines a second support surface width W414 along the lateraldirection L and the ratio of the height H418 of the second crest shapedmember 418 to the second support surface width W414 ranges from 1:1 to1:3. These dimensions may be varied as needed or desired in otherembodiments.

It should be noted that the track chain member 400 of the embodimentshown in FIGS. 9 and 10, as well as other figures of the presentdisclosure, may have features that are substantially symmetrical about amidplane M located halfway between the rail members 404, 412. Onedifference that features may be rotated about the midplane as will bediscussed later herein. The features of the rail members 404, 412including the crest shaped members 410, 418 may be symmetrical and/orhave similar or the same dimensions, etc.

As mentioned earlier herein, a track chain assembly 100 may be providedcomprising a plurality of track chain segments 102. The plurality oftrack chain segments may include at least one track chain segment thatincludes two track chain members 400 wherein at least one track chainmember 400 includes a shoe member 402 and a first rail member 404extending from the shoe member 402. The first rail member 404 defines atrack chain traveling direction 114 and a lateral direction Lperpendicular to track chain traveling direction 114, a first supportsurface 406 extending generally in both the track chain travelingdirection 114 and the lateral direction L defining an outer lateralextremity 408, and a first crest shaped member 410 disposed laterallyadjacent the outer lateral extremity 408 of the first support surface406.

The same track chain member 400 may also include a second rail member412 extending from the shoe member 402, wherein the second rail member412 defines the same track chain traveling direction 114 as the firstrail member 404 and the same lateral direction L as the first railmember 404, a second support surface 414 extending generally in both thetrack chain traveling direction 114 and the lateral direction L definingan inner lateral extremity 416, and a second crest shaped member 418disposed laterally adjacent the inner lateral extremity 416 of thesecond support surface 414. The first rail member 404 is spaced awayfrom the second rail member 412, defining a groove 420 therebetween.This groove 420 is configured to receive the guiding ridge 422 of anidler wheel or track roller 424 or the like, helping to keep the trackon the undercarriage.

As can be seen by looking at FIG. 9, the first and second supportsurfaces 406, 414 are coplanar. This may not be the case in otherembodiments. As mentioned previously, the track chain member 400 definesa midplane M and the first and second crest shaped members 410, 418 aresymmetrically shaped about the midplane M for this embodiment. This maynot be true in other embodiments.

Referring back to FIG. 10, the track chain member 400 further defines aconcave arcuate surface 426 such as a radius joining the first supportsurface 406 to the first crest shaped member 410. More specifically, thefirst crest shaped member 410 defines a first angled surface 428 forminga first oblique angle φ with the lateral direction L and the concavearcuate surface 426 joins the first support surface 406 with the firstangled surface 428. Similarly, the first crest shaped member 410 definesa convex arcuate surface 430 such as a radius near the zenith of thefirst crest shaped member 410. The first crest shaped member 410 definesa straight surface 432 near the zenith. Alternatively, the convexarcuate surface 430 may define the zenith without any straight surface.Also, the first crest shaped member 410 defines a second angled surface434 on the opposite lateral side of the first crest shaped member 410 ascompared to the first angled surface 428, wherein the second angledsurface 434 forms a second oblique angle γ with the lateral direction L.Although not pointed out in the figures, another convex arcuate shapemay blend the top straight surface 432 to the second angled surface 434.

It is contemplated that the various dimensions of the first crest member410 may be varied as needed or desired. For example, the first obliqueangle φ may range from 1 to 30 degrees. Likewise, the second obliqueangle γ may range from 0 to 180 degrees. The second oblique angle may begreater than the first oblique angle as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. Thismay not be the case in other embodiments. Any of these dimensions may bevaried as needed or desired in other embodiments.

FIGS. 11-14 illustrate an embodiment of a roller path of a track padthat may reduce the likelihood of fracturing or spalling when the trackchain or track chain member is subjected to heavy loads during use. Asbest illustrated by FIGS. 11 and 13, a track chain member 500 accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise a shoe member502 defining a track chain traveling direction T and a lateral directionL perpendicular to the track chain traveling direction T, and a trackpad member 504 extending from the shoe member 502 that is configured tosupport the weight of the machine as it is transferred to the track padmember 504 through a track roller 506 or the like. The track pad member504 may include a first lug member 508 extending from the shoe member502 in a first direction 510 parallel to the track chain travelingdirection T, a second lug member 512 and a third lug member 514 bothextending from the shoe member 502 in a second direction opposite 516 ofthe first direction 510.

As alluded to earlier herein, the first, second and third lug members508, 512, 514 define a Y-shaped configuration and the first lug 508defines a first lug width W508 along the lateral direction L. Focusingon FIG. 13, the first track pad member 504 defines a roller supportsurface 518 defining a roller support surface width W518 along thelateral direction L and the first lug width W508 ranges from 40-60% ofthe roller support surface width W518. Looking at FIG. 11, the first,second and third lugs 508, 512, 514 define track pin bores 520 forreceiving a track pin. The various dimensions and ratios may be variedas needed or desired. For example, the first lug width W508 may rangefrom 96 to 106 mm while the roller support surface width W518 may rangefrom 191 to 211 mm. Referring back to FIG. 13, the second lug member 512is spaced away from the third lug member 514, defining at leastpartially a void 522 therebetween and the first lug member 508 islaterally aligned with the void 522.

Looking at both FIGS. 11 and 13, this arrangement allows the first lugmember 508 to be inserted into the void 522 when assembling a trackchain assembly 524 using similarly configured track chain members 500 sothat the track pin may be inserted through the track pin bore 520 of thesecond or third lug member 512, 514 into the track pin bore 520 of thefirst lug member and the track pin bore 520 of the other of the secondor third lug member 512, 514, forming a rotating joint. All the trackpin bores 520 may have substantially the same diameters when clearanceand manufacturing tolerances are taken into consideration. Thisconfiguration or features may not be present or may be varied in scopein other embodiments.

Referring back to FIG. 13, the second lug member 512 defines a secondlug member width W512 along the lateral direction L, the third lugmember 514 defines a third lug member width W514 along the lateraldirection L, and the first lug member width W508 is different than thesecond lug member width W512 and the third lug member width W514. Thismay not be true for other embodiments. Similarly, the first lug memberwidth W508 is greater than the second lug member width W512 but lessthan the third lug member width W514. This may not be the case in otherembodiments.

The track chain member 500 may define a center of mass C and a centralaxis CA passing through the center mass C wherein the central axis isperpendicular to the lateral direction L and the track chain travelingdirection T. The geometry of the track chain member 500 may be describedas including a circular array wherein the first, second and third lugmembers 508, 512, 514 are rotated about the central axis 180 degrees,forming fourth, fifth and sixth lug members 526, 528, 530 respectively.The track chain member may further define a central groove 532 locatedat the central axis CA wherein the central groove 532 extends generallyin the track chain traveling direction T. This feature may allow theguide ridge 534 of a track roller 506 or the like to ride therein,helping to prevent the track chain assembly 524 from falling off theundercarriage of a machine. The support surface 518 of the track pad mayhave a width W518 corresponding with that of a portion 536 of the roller506 so that the contact surface between the track roller and the trackpad is maximized to reduce the stress exerted on the track pad.

With continued reference to FIGS. 11 and 13, a track chain assembly 524according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided.The track chain assembly 524 may comprise a plurality of interlockingtrack chain members 500 wherein each track chain member 500 defines atrack chain traveling direction T and a lateral direction Lperpendicular to the track chain traveling direction T. Each of theinterlocking track chain members 500 may include a shoe member 502defining a shoe width W502 along the lateral direction L, a first trackpad member 504 defining a first track pad maximum width W504 along thelateral direction L, and a second track pad member 504′ defining asecond maximum track pad width W504′ along the lateral direction L. Theratio of either the first or second track pad maximum widths W504, W504′to the shoe member width W502 may range from 1:4 to 3:4.

Focusing on FIG. 11, the first track pad member 504 is spaced away fromthe second track pad member 504′ a predetermined distance D504 along thelateral direction L. As already discussed earlier herein, both the firsttrack pad member 504 and the second track pad member 504′ include afirst lug member 504 extending from the shoe member 502 in a firstdirection 510 generally parallel to the track chain traveling directionT, and a second lug member 512 and a third lug member 514 both extendingfrom the shoe member 502 in a second direction 516 opposite of the firstdirection 510. The first lug member 508 defines a first lug member widthW508 along the lateral direction L and the first lug member width W508ranges from 40-60% of either the first or second maximum track padwidths W504, W504′. Any of these dimensions may be varied as needed ordesired in other embodiments.

Referring now to FIGS. 15 and 16, a track chain member according toanother embodiment of the present disclosure is shown and will now bedescribed. The track chain member 600 may comprise a shoe member 602defining a track chain traveling direction T and a lateral direction Lperpendicular to the track chain traveling direction T while alsodefining a first lateral end 603 and a second lateral end 605 of theshoe member 602. The track chain member 600 also comprises a first trackpad member 604 extending from the shoe member 602 including a first lugmember 608 extending from the shoe member 602 in a first direction 610parallel to the track chain traveling direction T, a second lug member612 and a third lug member 614 both extending from the shoe member 602in a second direction 616 opposite of the first direction 610. Thisarrangement of the first, second and third lug members 608, 612, 614define a Y-shaped configuration.

The track chain member 600 further includes a first rib 606 disposednearest the first lug member 608 along the track chain travelingdirection T extending from the first track pad member 604 along thelateral direction L substantially to the first lateral end 603 of theshoe member 600. The first rib 606 may define a first concave radialportion 636. Also, the track chain member 600 may include a second rib607 disposed nearest the second lug member 612 along the track chaintraveling direction T extending from the track pad member 604 along thelateral direction L substantially to the first lateral end 603 of theshoe member 602.

In some embodiments, the first concave radial portion 636 defines aradius 638 ranging from 50 to 900 mm. This value may be varied as neededor desired in other embodiments.

As best seen in FIG. 16, the shoe member 602 may include a groundengaging portion 640 disposed proximate the first lateral end 603, andthe shoe member 602 may define a notch 642 bounded by the first lugmember 608, the first rib 606 and ground engaging portion 640 disposedproximate the first lateral end 603. In some embodiments, the trackchain member 600 may further comprise a transitional surface 644 that atleast partially defines the notch 642, wherein the transitional surface644 is bounded by the first lug member 608, the ground engaging portion640 and the first rib 606. The transitional surface 644 may include aradial portion 646, a slope portion, etc. This surface may provideclearance so that the second lug member of a similar track chain membermay fit into the notch when assembly a track chain assembly.

Looking at both FIGS. 15 and 16, the ground engaging portion 640 mayextend from the first lug member 608 and the second lug member 612 tothe first lateral end 603, the first lug member 608 may be spaced awayfrom the first lateral end 603 a first lateral distance 648, the secondlug member 612 is spaced away from the first lateral end 603 a secondlateral distance 650, and the first rib 606 extends from the first lugmember 608 to the ground engaging portion 640 of the shoe member 602 afirst rib lateral distance 652 that is 90 to 100% the value of the firstlateral distance 648. Similarly, the second rib 607 extends from thesecond lug member 612 to the ground engaging portion 640 of the shoemember 602 a second rib lateral distance 654 that is 90 to 100% thevalue of the first lateral distance 648. These distances may be variedas needed or desired. In many embodiments, the overlap of thesedistances may be substantial, that is to say, the overlap is 75% orgreater.

A similar description may be made regarding the heights of the ribs 606,607 to the height of the track pad measured in the vertical direction ofthe track chain member. As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the first rib 606may range from 90 to 100% of the height of the track pad 604 while thesecond rib 607 may range from 75 to 100% of the track pad 604. Again,these dimensions may be varied as needed or desired in otherembodiments.

As discussed earlier herein, a track chain assembly 100 (see FIG. 1) maybe assembled by interlocking a plurality of track chain members 600 thatare similarly or identically configured such as using a series of trackchain members 600 as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. Other configured trackchain members such as master links and the like may also be attached tothe plurality of identically or similarly configured track chainmembers.

Furthermore, as can be appreciated in view of FIGS. 15, 16, 19 and 22each of the plurality of track chain members 600 may define a center ofmass C and a central axis CA passing through the center of mass Cwherein the central axis CA is perpendicular to the lateral direction Land the track chain traveling direction T and the track chain member 600may include a circular array wherein the first, second and third lugmembers 608, 612, 614 may be rotated about the central axis 180 degrees,forming fourth, fifth and sixth lug members 626, 628, 630. Otherfeatures such as the first rib 606, second rib 607, notch 642, andground engaging portion 640 may also be rotated as part of the array,etc.

Focusing now on FIGS. 19 and 22, various features of the track chainmember that allow a more consistent thickness will be discussed. Asshown, the track chain member 600 may comprise a shoe member 602defining a track chain traveling direction T and a lateral direction Lperpendicular to the track chain traveling direction T. The shoe member602 may further define a first lateral end 603, a second lateral end605, and a ground engaging surface 740 spanning from the first lateralend 603 to the second lateral end 605. The shoe member 602 may furtherdefine a first side void 756 proximate the first lateral end 603, and asecond side void 758 proximate the second lateral end 605, and the firstside void 758 terminates a first predetermined distance 760 from thefirst lateral end 603 and the second side void 758 terminates a secondpredetermined distance 762 from the second lateral end 605. Morespecifically, the ground engaging surface may define the first andsecond side voids. Thus, the first and second side voids are notencapsulated in the shoe member. This may not be the case in otherembodiments.

In addition, the shoe member 602 may further define a main central void764 that is centered along the lateral direction L of shoe member withrespect to the first and the second lateral ends 603, 605. The trackchain member 600 wherein the shoe member 602 further define a firstauxiliary void 766 in communication with the main central void 764 andthe main central void 764 defines a first side end 768 and the firstauxiliary void 766 is positioned proximate the first side end 768 of themain central void 764. The shoe member 602 may further define a secondauxiliary void 770 in communication with the main central void 764 andthe second auxiliary void 770 is positioned proximate the second sideend 772 of the main central void 764. Again, the main central void maybe defined by the ground engaging surface so that the void is notencapsulated in the shoe member. As pointed out in FIG. 19, the sidesurfaces 768, 772 of the main central void may form an oblique anglewith respect to the lateral direction L or the track chain travelingdirection T. As best seen in FIG. 22, the main central void 764 maydefine a main central void depth D764 in a direction CA perpendicular tothe ground engaging surface 740, the first auxiliary void 766 may definea first auxiliary void depth D766 in a direction CA perpendicular to theground engaging surface 740, and the second auxiliary void 770 defines asecond auxiliary void depth D770 in a direction CA perpendicular to theground engaging surface 740, and the first and second auxiliary voiddepths D766, D770 are greater than the main central void depth D764. Insome embodiments, these depths may be the same.

As discussed earlier herein, a track chain assembly 100 (see FIG. 1) maybe assembled by interlocking a plurality of track chain members 600 thatare similarly or identically configured such as using a series of trackchain members 600 as shown in FIGS. 19 and 22. Other configured trackchain members such as master links and the like may also be attached tothe plurality of identically or similarly configured track chainmembers.

Focusing again on FIG. 22, the track chain assembly may comprise aplurality of interlocking track chain members 600 wherein each trackchain member 600 defines a track chain traveling direction T, a lateraldirection L perpendicular to the track chain traveling direction T, andincludes a shoe member 602 defining a first lateral end 603, a secondlateral end 605, and a ground engaging surface 740 spanning from thefirst lateral end 603 to the second lateral end 605. As depicted, afirst rail member 704 may extend from the shoe member 602 disposedproximate the first lateral end 605, and a second rail member 706extending from the shoe member 602 disposed proximate the second lateralend 605 spaced away from the first rail member 704, defining a centralgroove 707 therebetween.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 22, the track chain member 600 may include afirst rib 606 and a second rib 607 extending between the first railmember 704 and the first lateral end 603 of the shoe member 602.Similarly, there may be a third rib 708 and a fourth rib 710 extendingbetween the second rail member 706 and the second lateral end 705 of theshoe member 602.

Looking at FIG. 22, the main central void 764 defined by the groundengaging surface 740 of the shoe member 602 disposed beneath the centralgrove 707 along a direction perpendicular to the ground engaging surface740. The first side void 756 proximate the first lateral end 603 isbounded by the ground engaging surface 740 and is spaced away from themain central void 764 and a second side void 758 proximate the secondlateral end 605 bounded by the ground engaging surface 740 spaced awayfrom the central void 764. The first side void 756 is bounded on eitherside along the track chain traveling direction T by the first rib 606and the second rib 607. That is to say, the first side void does notextend further along the track chain traveling direction than anyportion of the first or second rib. Likewise, the second side void 758is bounded on either side along the track chain traveling direction T bythe third rib 708 and the fourth rib 710.

For this particular embodiment, the shoe member 602 defines a firstcurved surface 774 at the bottom of the first side void 756 and a secondcurved surface 774′ at the bottom of the second side void 758. This maynot be the case in other embodiments. The central groove 707 defines awidth W707 along the lateral direction L and the first auxiliary void766 and the second auxiliary void 770 are spaced away from each other adistance 776 along the lateral direction L that is greater than thewidth W707 of the central groove 707.

FIG. 22 illustrates that track chain member 600 defines a cross-sectiontaken along the lateral direction L centered on the shoe member 602along the track chain traveling direction T and a thickness T702measured along a direction CA perpendicular to the ground engagingsurface 740 that varies along the lateral direction L. For thisembodiment, the thickness T702 is greatest in the areas disposed betweeneither the first side void 774 and the main central void 764 or thesecond side void 758 and the main central void 764.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

In practice, a track chain assembly, track chain member and/or pinretention device may be sold, manufactured, bought etc. and attached tothe machine in the aftermarket or original equipment scenarios accordingto any of the embodiments discussed herein. That is to say, the machinemay be sold with the track chain assembly, track chain member and/or pinretention device according to embodiments described herein or themachine may be retrofitted, repaired, refurbished to use any of theembodiments discussed herein. The various components including, but notlimited to the track chain members, may be used from any suitablematerial such as cast iron, grey cast iron, steel, etc.

In one particular application, it has been determined that a M36 boltmay be used as the fastener for the pin retention device. In such anapplication, the bolt may be tighten using 2400 NM or more of torque andthe resulting connection may experience no loosening during a period of20,000 hours of track operation. The device may also withstand 490 kN ofshear force. If the device is spaced away from the track pin as has beendescribed earlier herein, torque from a spinning track pin may not beeffectively transferred to the device, lessening the risk that thedevice may become loose over time. As mentioned earlier, hand tools maybe sufficient to install the pin retention device.

In FIG. 10, the right half of this figure from the midplane Millustrates what happens when the idler wheel or track roller 424 isangled relative to the track chain member 400 as represented by line 436which is angled relative to the lateral direction L. This mimics whathappens when the track chain member 400 with the crest member 410 issubjected to an uneven or angled terrain in use. The amount of stressgenerated by this situation can be seen by the various cross-hatching inconcentric rings located near the outer lateral extremity 408. On theother hand, the left half of this figure from the midplane M illustrateswhat happens when the idler wheel or track roller is angled relative tothe track chain member as represented by line 438 which is angledrelative to the lateral direction L. Again, this mimics what happenswhen the track chain member without a crest member is subjected to anuneven or angled terrain. The amount of stress is considerably greaterwithout the crest member. Thus, one skilled in the art would expectusing the crest member to reduce the likelihood of fracturing orspalling, etc., helping to reduce the need for maintenance.

For the embodiments disclosed in FIGS. 11 and 13, FIG. 12 shows a FEAstress plot of a previous design of a track lug in the upper left handcorner thereof while it also shows a FEA stress plot of a track lug suchas the first track lug 508 of FIGS. 11 and 13 in the lower right handcorner, showing a reduction in stress. This reduction in stressindicates to one skilled in the art that the likelihood of fracturing orspalling of the new design is less than the previous design.

Likewise, FIG. 14 shows that the previous design, shown to the extremeleft, has higher stress than that of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11and 13, seen in the middle labeled as 500, and that of anotherembodiment not shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, labeled as 550 at the extremeright. So, the improved designs will likely experience less fracturingand spalling. For the embodiments disclosed in FIGS. 15 and 16, thestress plot in FIG. 16 shows that the maximum stress under the simulatedoperating conditions is approximately 1400 MPa on the top portion of thetrack pad. To the contrary previous designs without the rib designs ofFIGS. 15 and 16, were determined using a similar FEA modeling scenarioto have peak stresses as high as 2300 MPa. FIGS. 17 and 18 illustratethat the first and second ribs experience a maximum stress ofapproximately 929 MPa. Once more, this indicates a lower likelihood offracturing or spalling.

For the embodiments shown in FIGS. 15, 19 and 22, the stress plots inFIGS. 20 and 21 show that using the provision of the side voids 756,758, and the central void 764 as well as using curved ribs in certainembodiments allows the stress to be reduced to about 500-650 MPa in thecorners 778 of the central void 764 (see FIG. 20) and for the stress inthe area 780 near a lateral end 703, 705 to be reduced to about 600-800in the side void 756, 758 (see FIG. 21). For previous designs using aslot on the bottom of the track shoe that extends all the way acrosslaterally, similar areas experienced a maximum stress ranging from1700-1900 MPa. Again, this indicates that the likelihood of fracture orspalling was reduced.

FIG. 23 shows an embodiment of a tracked machine 800 in the form of ahydraulic shovel that includes an embodiment of a track system 802constructed in accordance with principles of the present disclosure.Among other uses, a hydraulic shovel can be used to load overburden andore into haul trucks during the mining process in various surface mineapplications.

While the arrangement is illustrated in connection with a hydraulicmining shovel, the arrangement disclosed herein has universalapplicability in various other types of machines commonly employ tracksystems, as opposed to wheels. The term “machine” may refer to anymachine that performs some type of operation associated with an industrysuch as mining or construction, or any other industry known in the art.For example, the machine may be an excavator, wheel loader, cableshovel, or dragline or the like. Moreover, one or more implements may beconnected to the machine. Such implements may be utilized for a varietyof tasks, including, for example, lifting and loading.

As shown in FIG. 23, the machine 800 may include a body 804 with a cab806 to house a machine operator. The machine may also include a boomsystem 808 pivotally connected at one end to the body 804 and supportingan implement 810 at an opposing, distal end. In embodiments, theimplement 810 can be any suitable implement, such as a bucket, aclamshell, a blade, or any other type of suitable device. A controlsystem can be housed in the cab 806 that can be adapted to allow amachine operator to manipulate and articulate the implement 810 fordigging, excavating, or any other suitable application.

The body 804 may be supported on a main frame 812 supported on anundercarriage structure 814. The undercarriage structure 814 includes asupporting structure 818 that supports a track system 802 utilized formovement of the machine 800. The track system 802 may include first andsecond track roller frame assemblies 816, which are spaced from andadjacent respective first and second sides of the undercarriagestructure 814. It will be appreciated that only one of the track rollerframe assemblies 816 is visible in FIG. 23.

Each of the track roller frame assemblies 816 carries an idler wheel820, a drive sprocket wheel 822, and a plurality of track guidingrollers 824. The drive sprocket wheel 822 is powered in forward andreverse directions by the machine 800. An endless track chain assembly826 encircles each drive sprocket wheel 822, the idler wheel 820, andthe track guiding rollers 824. The track chain assembly 826 includes aplurality of interconnected track pads 828, also referred to as trackchain members herein. The track guiding rollers 824 guide the track pads828 as the track chain assembly 826 is driven by the drive sprocketwheel 822. The track chain assembly 826 may have any track chain member,track pin retention device, and/or track chain assembly as previouslydescribed herein. It should be noted that the contents of FIG. 23indicate that the apparatus disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 9,409,613 may bemodified to use any track chain member, track pin retention device,and/or track chain assembly as described herein.

For any of the embodiments discussed herein, the track chain assemblymay comprise a plurality of track chain members that are similarly oridentically configured. It is to be understood that at least twoadditional track chain members may be also provided that have differentor dissimilar geometry as may be the case for two master links that arejoined to the plurality of similar or identically configured track chainmembers, etc.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made to the embodiments of theapparatus and methods of assembly as discussed herein without departingfrom the scope or spirit of the invention(s). Other embodiments of thisdisclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art fromconsideration of the specification and practice of the variousembodiments disclosed herein. For example, some of the equipment may beconstructed and function differently than what has been described hereinand certain steps of any method may be omitted, performed in an orderthat is different than what has been specifically mentioned or in somecases performed simultaneously or in sub-steps. Furthermore, variationsor modifications to certain aspects or features of various embodimentsmay be made to create further embodiments and features and aspects ofvarious embodiments may be added to or substituted for other features oraspects of other embodiments in order to provide still furtherembodiments.

Accordingly, it is intended that the specification and examples beconsidered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of theinvention(s) being indicated by the following claims and theirequivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A track chain member comprising: a shoe member;and a first rail member extending from the shoe member, wherein thefirst rail member defines a track chain traveling direction and alateral direction generally perpendicular to track chain travelingdirection; a first support surface extending generally in both the trackchain traveling direction and the lateral direction defining an outerlateral extremity; a first crest shaped member disposed laterallyadjacent the outer lateral extremity of the first support surface; and agroove that extends downwardly from the first support surface andcompletely through the track chain member along the track chaintraveling direction; wherein the first crest shaped member defines awidth along the lateral direction, a vertical direction that isperpendicular to the lateral direction and the track chain travelingdirection, and a height in the vertical direction, wherein the widthexceeds the height.
 2. The track chain member of claim 1 wherein theshoe member and the first rail member are integral with each other. 3.The track chain member of claim 1 wherein the shoe member and the firstrail member define metallic outer surfaces.
 4. The track chain member ofclaim 3 wherein the shoe member and the first rail member consistessentially of metallic material.
 5. The track chain member of claim 1further comprising: a second rail member extending from the shoe member,wherein the second rail member defines a second support surfaceextending generally in both the track chain traveling direction and thelateral direction defining an inner lateral extremity; and a secondcrest shaped member disposed laterally adjacent the inner lateralextremity of the second support surface; wherein the groove extendsdownwardly from the first support surface and the second supportsurface.
 6. The track chain member of claim 5 wherein the second crestshaped member defines a width along the lateral direction, a verticaldirection that is perpendicular to the lateral direction and the trackchain traveling direction, and a height in the vertical direction,wherein the width exceeds the height.
 7. The track chain member of claim6 wherein the width ranges from 40 to 200 mm.
 8. The track chain memberof claim 7 wherein the height ranges from 40 to 200 mm.
 9. The trackchain member of claim 8 wherein the second support surface defines asecond support surface width along the lateral direction and the ratioof the height of the second crest shaped member to the second supportsurface width ranges from 1:1 to 1:3.
 10. A track chain assemblycomprising: a plurality of track chain segments; at least one of theplurality of track chain segments includes two track chain members andat least one track chain member includes a shoe member; a first railmember extending from the shoe member, wherein the first rail memberdefines a track chain traveling direction and a lateral directiongenerally perpendicular to track chain traveling direction; a firstsupport surface extending generally in both the track chain travelingdirection and the lateral direction defining an outer lateral extremity;and a first crest shaped member disposed laterally adjacent the outerlateral extremity of the first support surface; and a second rail memberextending from the shoe member, wherein the first rail member definesthe same track chain traveling direction as the first rail member andthe same lateral direction as the first rail member; a second supportsurface extending generally in both the track chain traveling directionand the lateral direction defining an inner lateral extremity; and asecond crest shaped member disposed laterally adjacent the inner lateralextremity of the second support surface; wherein the first rail memberis spaced away from the second rail member, defining a groovetherebetween extending downwardly from the first support surface and thesecond support surface, and completely through the track chain memberalong the track chain traveling direction, and both the first crestshaped member and the second crest shaped member define a width alongthe lateral direction, a vertical direction that is perpendicular to thelateral direction and the track chain traveling direction, and a heightin the vertical direction, wherein the width exceeds the height.
 11. Thetrack chain assembly of claim 10 wherein the first and second supportsurfaces are coplanar.
 12. The track chain assembly of claim 10 whereinthe track chain member defines a midplane and the first and second crestshaped members are symmetrically shaped about the midplane.
 13. Thetrack chain assembly of claim 12 wherein the track chain member furtherdefines a concave arcuate surface joining the first support surface tothe first crest shaped member.
 14. The track chain assembly of claim 13wherein the first crest shaped member defines a first angled surfaceforming a first oblique angle with the lateral direction and the concavearcuate surface joins the first support surface with the first angledsurface.
 15. The track chain assembly of claim 14 wherein the firstcrest shaped member defines a convex arcuate surface near the zenith ofthe first crest shaped member.
 16. The track chain assembly of claim 15wherein the first crest shaped member defines a straight surface nearthe zenith.
 17. The track chain assembly of claim 16 wherein the firstcrest shaped member defines a second angled surface on the oppositelateral side of the first crest shaped member as compared to the firstangled surface, wherein the second angled surface forms a second obliqueangle with the lateral direction.
 18. The track chain assembly of claim17 wherein the first oblique angle ranges from 1 to 30 degrees.
 19. Thetrack chain assembly of claim 18 wherein the second oblique angle rangesfrom 0 to 180 degrees.